Adolphus Buschbeck facts for kids

Adolphus (Adolph) Buschbeck (born March 23, 1822, died May 28, 1883) was an important military leader during the American Civil War. He led soldiers in the 27th Pennsylvania Infantry and commanded a group of soldiers called a brigade. He served in two main armies: the Army of the Potomac and later the Army of the Cumberland.

Early Life and Education

Adolphus Buschbeck was born in Koblenz, Germany. In 1849, he moved to the United States. He made his home in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Before the war, he taught math at a high school in Philadelphia.

Serving in the Civil War

When the Civil War began, Buschbeck volunteered to serve. In September 1861, he became a lieutenant colonel in the 27th Pennsylvania Infantry regiment. By October 1861, he was promoted to colonel of the same regiment. As a colonel, Buschbeck fought in the Battle of Cross Keys. He served under the command of Major General John C. Frémont.

Buschbeck's unit later became part of the XI Corps. This corps was part of the Army of the Potomac. At the Second Battle of Bull Run, Buschbeck temporarily led a brigade. He served under generals like Franz Sigel and Oliver Otis Howard.

The Battle of Chancellorsville

A very important moment for Buschbeck was the Battle of Chancellorsville. Here, he commanded the 1st Brigade of the 2nd Division in the XI Corps. During this battle, Confederate soldiers launched a surprise attack. They tried to go around the side of the Union army.

Buschbeck's brigade was in the path of this attack. His soldiers fought bravely against the Confederates. They held their ground for a while, even though they were outnumbered. Their strong defense earned Buschbeck much praise. General Howard, his commander, even called Buschbeck's actions "praiseworthy firmness."

Moving to the Western Theater

After Chancellorsville, Buschbeck took some time off. Because of this, he missed the Battle of Gettysburg. When he returned, his unit was sent to the Western Theater of the war. Here, he served under Major General Joseph Hooker.

Buschbeck's brigade fought in the Battle of Wauhatchie and the Battle of Missionary Ridge. At Missionary Ridge, his soldiers helped attack Tunnel Hill. Later, his corps joined with another to form the XX Corps. Buschbeck was the highest-ranking German officer who remained in command.

He continued to lead a brigade during the Atlanta Campaign. His soldiers fought in battles like Battle of Rocky Face Ridge, Battle of Resaca, and the Battle of Dallas. Buschbeck was officially released from service in March 1864. He served with honor throughout the war. However, he never received a promotion to brigadier general.

After the War

After the Civil War, Buschbeck returned to teaching. He taught at the Episcopal Academy in Philadelphia. In 1871, he married Miss Horner. He later became ill and traveled to Europe. Adolphus Buschbeck died in Florence, Italy, in 1883. His wife and daughter survived him.